Section 4: Players & Officials
Team Composition
- On the field: 11 players per side — same as NFL
- Roster: FBS programs may have up to 85 scholarship players and additional walk-ons (total roster often exceeds 100). NFL rosters are limited to 53.
- Substitutions: Unlimited free substitution — any number of players may enter or leave during a dead ball. Same as NFL.
Positions
NCAA uses the same positions as the NFL: quarterback, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, offensive linemen (center, guards, tackles), defensive linemen, linebackers, cornerbacks, safeties, and special teams specialists. Number restrictions are similar but less rigid than they were historically.
Game Officials (7)
NCAA uses a crew of 7 officials — the same number as the NFL but with slightly different titles and responsibilities:
- Referee (R): White cap. Head official, has final authority. Positioned behind the offensive backfield on the throwing arm side of the quarterback.
- Umpire (U): Positioned in the defensive secondary (moved from behind the defensive line). Monitors line of scrimmage contact, illegal formations, and equipment.
- Head Linesman (HL): Positioned on the chain crew side of the line of scrimmage. Rules on offside, encroachment, and out-of-bounds on their side.
- Line Judge (LJ): Opposite side from the head linesman. Monitors the line of scrimmage and the neutral zone.
- Back Judge (BJ): Positioned in the deep secondary. Monitors deep passes, goal line plays, and the 25-second play clock.
- Field Judge (FJ): Deep secondary on the same side as the line judge. Monitors deep pass plays and timing.
- Side Judge (SJ): Deep secondary on the same side as the head linesman. Monitors sideline plays and deep passes.
Instant Replay
- Booth-initiated: All replay reviews are initiated by the replay official in the booth — coaches CANNOT challenge plays (NFL allows 2 coach's challenges per game)
- All plays reviewed: The replay official monitors every play and can stop the game for review at any time
- Targeting review: All targeting fouls are automatically reviewed, and the call can be confirmed, overturned, or upheld by rule